If you're considering the BuiltBar protein bar as your go-to snack, you might want to think again. Despite its popularity and enticing marketing, the drinkable protein bar has its fair share of drawbacks that often go overlooked. Let's delve into the reasons why BuiltBar might not be as good as it seems.
The first red flag is the ingredient list. While the product touts a 'clean label' and 'natural ingredients,' a closer look reveals a substantial amount of added sugars and controversial components. For instance, the primary sweetener in BuiltBar is erythritol, a sugar alcohol that can cause gastrointestinal issues in some individuals.
Sweetener Controversy
The debate surrounding erythritol is ongoing. While it's generally considered safe by the FDA and has a lower glycemic index than traditional sugars, it's also a common culprit in digestive distress, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Furthermore, consuming erythritol can subtract from your daily sugar intake limit, potentially leading to cravings and a increased appetite.
A single BuiltBar contains 13g of erythritol, which is a significant amount. Consuming a few bars could land you well above the generally recommended limit of 50g of sugar alcohols daily. Aspartame, another controversial ingredient, is also present in some flavors, which may concern those trying to avoid artificial sweeteners.
Protein Quality and Quantity
Protein is the main draw of BuiltBar, but the protein quality and quantity may not be as impressive as the marketing suggests. The protein primarily comes from whey concentrates and corn protein, both of which are relatively low in essential amino acids. Additionally, a single bar provides only about 15-20g of protein, less than you'd get from a typical protein shake.
The calorie count per bar is also worth noting. With around 180-200 calories each, BuiltBar is significantly calorie-dense compared to many other protein bars. This could lead to overeating and potentially hinder weight loss or maintenance efforts.
Nutritional Value and llegar
Considering the calories and macronutrient profile, BuiltBar's nutritional value might not justify its cost or hype. It's high in calories and fat, relatively moderate in protein, and offers little in the way of vitamins and minerals. The fiber content is also low, contributing to its low satiety rating.
Despite these drawbacks, BuiltBar's main selling point is convenience. For many, the ability to drink a protein-packed snack on the go is invaluable. However, several equally convenient alternatives exist, many of which address the pitfalls presented by BuiltBar.
Alternatives to BuiltBar
A few protein bar alternatives worth considering include: Quest Bars, which offer high protein content and quality, along with a wider range of flavors; Kind Breakfast Bars, for those wanting a more natural option; and Koia Protein Shakes, known for their allergen-free, plant-based protein sources.
Each of these options addresses some of the concerns raised about BuiltBar, offering a more balanced nutritional profile, better protein quality, or lower sugar content. It's also possible to make homemade protein bars, ensuring control over ingredients and maintaining affordability.
In conclusion, while BuiltBar may seem like a convenient and tasty protein-packed snack, its drawbacks - including questionable sweeteners, relatively low protein per serving, and unbalanced nutritional value - warrant consideration. With numerous equally convenient and potentially healthier alternatives available, consumers have plenty of options to explore.